Page 60 of Blinding Light

After being rushed into getting ready for today’s events, Cyprian had found himself in a slow display of supremacy. The Imperials controlled everything on Helion, including time. They seemed to have plenty of it, taking hours to enjoy time together in Moargan’s mansion. Refreshments were served while the royal family was scattered all over the house. Children were playing, while adults chatted loudly.

This was what a party must look like, Cyprian thought. He spent most of the time in the kitchen, silently watching Aviel as he bossed all the personnel around, clearly in his element. A few times he sent a golden wink in Cyprian’s direction, but other than that, he kept quiet, for which Cyprian was grateful.

He recognized a few members who had been present during their meeting the other day. Yure and Vandor were there. Talking to a stranger in uniform was Moargan’s cousin Kylix, entirely dressed in black. Milanov’s voice was loud and he was once more accompanied by his right hand, Zimeon. Luminary guards were posted all over the house and Cyprian even recognized the plainly dressed, quiet people as slaves.

A little later, the group finally headed toward today’s event. By the time they made their way inside the arena, every singlestand of the venue was overcrowded. Loud music blasted through the speakers, and people carrying bags of snacks and drinks were chatting and cheering, as they waited for the spectacle to start.

The Aureate.

“Come on, lover, this way.” Moargan kept his hand in the small of Cyprian’s back as they made their way through the crowd.

The white cape fluttered around Cyprian’s shoulders, serene and free, a heavy contrast to the tight pants around his thighs. It made him feel sexy. Invincible, with the way the crowd stepped back to let him pass.

And uncomfortable.

They reached the door to the designated area for the Imperials and two Luminary guards stepped aside to let them in.

The lounge was made of a large, luminous space with several glass cabins. As Moargan handed him a drink, Cyprian watched as a handful of other Imperial’s entered. Some of them had been at the party back home, others were new faces.

“More cousins,” Moargan explained. “Some go to the academy as well, others are still at school or have already graduated. There are twelve of us in total.”

Kylix walked in and gave him a clipped nod before disappearing into one of the cabins with a dark-haired guy wearing an identical uniform.

“He always looks like he has just swallowed a gherkin,” Moargan muttered. “But he has a reputation when it comes to fucking.”

Yure and Vandor stood by the bar, talking softly and smoking a red cinder cigarette. They smiled when they saw them.

“Did you enjoy the party back home?” Aviel asked from behind.

“Sure,” Cyprian lied.

“Feeling uncomfortable around me, huh?” Aviel chuckled. “I get that a lot. Don’t worry. Now, let’s see what you’ve got.” Their gazes locked.

Cyprian felt his eyes burn, and though the other guy smiled, there was no amusement in his stare. It was molten gold, hard and intense.

A light bulb exploded, followed by another one.

A vision flickered through his mind.Stairs. So many of them.He felt like he was falling.

Then Aviel blinked and the intensity was gone. He took a drink, patted Cyprian’s shoulder, and strolled away. Cyprian watched as he clicked his fingers and disappeared in one of the cabins, followed by another guy a second later.

With a heavy sigh, Cyprian tipped his glass to the bartender. The woman silently filled up his glass.

“Is it always this busy?” He asked. Sliding off the towel from her shoulder, she started cleaning glasses.

“Yes. Aureates are popular. You’re not from here?”

“I—no.”

Was he?

Suddenly Moargan stood next to him. “Are you coming, lover? Helianth’s about to enter the arena.” He leaned across the bar, grabbed a bottle and two glasses, winked at the bartender, then pointed his chin to a cabin.

Cyprian followed. He’d barely stepped inside the small cubicle when Moargan kicked the door shut.

“Welcome to my little spot,” Moargan smiled. “Humble, but with the best view.”

Cyprian looked around. Aside from a couch and ropes that fell from the ceiling, the place was empty. But the view of the entire arena was sublime.

---